1. Who was Moctezuma and why did he initially welcome the Spaniards as friends rather than foes? What was the name of the capital city of the Aztecs and what was remarkable about it? What are some of the other most notable aspects of Aztec civilization?
2. Who were the Mayans and why were they so impressive? Discuss some of the ways they stood out in writing, astronomy, math and architecture?
3. Mexican American war why did the U.S. go to war with Mexico? How long did the war last? Who were some of the famous soldiers and politicians involved? What did the U.S. gain in victory?
4. Who was Benito Juárez and why is he often referred to as the Abraham Lincoln of México?
5. What famous battle is commemorated on May 5th? Who were the Mexicans fighting? Who was Maximilian and why was he in Mexico?
Art and Culture
6. Who was Frida Kahlo? What are the major themes in her art? What is an “autorretrato” and how does she typically depict her topic in them?
7. When and why did the mural movement come about? Who were the great muralists? Select two and compare their work in terms of styles and themes.
8. Most people have seen José Guadalupe Posada’s depictions of skeletons riding bikes, dancing and taking part in everyday life as decorations for the Day of the Dead. In fact, these images were not intended for that purpose. Who was Posada and why did he draw these cavorting skeletons?
9. Who was Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz and why was her defense of liberty and women’s rights so surprising?
10. When does El Día de los muertos occur and what is celebrated? How do Mexicans celebrate this day? Discuss two rituals associated with this day. Describe an “ofrenda” and the significance of items typically included?
11. What are posadas? When do Mexicans begin the Christmas celebrations and when do they finish?
12. When is Mexican Independence day and how do Mexicans celebrate it? What is the “grito de independencia?” Who gave it first and made it famous? Who gives it now?
13. Are piñatas fun party decorations or representations of the devil? Where did the piñata originate? Who used them before they became standard party games for children?
